Title - Adaptive Physical Education Teacher
Location - Multiple
Intro
Here at Questar III BOCES, we believe in changing lives, realizing dreams and doing together what can’t be done alone. Our vision is that of creating a student-centered culture and putting students first. Our core values include a commitment to excellence by honing our craftsmanship to deliver high-quality work, a commitment to leadership & service by moving the organization, departments and school districts forward by exceeding client expectations, and a commitment to innovation by creating programs and services to address client needs AND by continuously improving our programs and operations. We believe that organizational excellence is best achieved when leadership is reflective of our diverse society.
About the Job
Starting Immediately - Questar III BOCES announces a vacancy for a full-time Adaptive Physical Education Teacher position.This position will serve students located at Rensselaer Academy in Rensselaer, NY, and George Washington School in Troy, NY.
As an Adaptive Physical Education (APE) Teacher, you will be a specialized educator dedicated to ensuring that students with diverse physical, developmental, or emotional needs have equal access to the benefits of physical activity. You will design, modify, and implement individualized exercise programs that promote motor skills, physical fitness, and social-emotional growth within a safe and inclusive environment.
Responsibilities
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Assessment & Evaluation: Conduct comprehensive motor skill assessments to determine a student’s current level of performance and eligibility for APE services.
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IEP Development: Collaborate with the Special Education team to write and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), setting specific, measurable goals for each student.
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Instructional Adaptation: Modify traditional physical education activities, equipment, and rules to meet the unique capabilities of students with disabilities (e.g., using tactile boundaries for students with visual impairments or specialized cycles for students with mobility challenges).
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Direct Instruction: Provide individual or small-group instruction focused on fundamental motor skills, cardiovascular health, strength, and sportsmanship.
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Collaboration: Work closely with Physical Therapists (PT), Occupational Therapists (OT), and general PE teachers to ensure a holistic approach to student wellness.
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Documentation: Maintain accurate records of student progress, attendance, and quarterly reports required for legal compliance.
Required Skills & Qualifications
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology, or Special Education.
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Certification: NYS Physical Education Teaching Certification Required (students currently enrolled in a program are encouraged to apply). Preferred candidates will hold Adaptive Physical Education (APE) certification and have experience providing APE services to special education students.
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Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of various disabilities (Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, etc.) and how they impact physical movement.
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Communication: Ability to explain complex physical tasks simply and communicate effectively with parents and multidisciplinary teams.
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Patience & Creativity: A high degree of empathy and the ability to "think outside the box" to solve accessibility challenges on the fly.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to demonstrate physical movements (running, jumping, throwing).
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Capability to lift or assist students and maneuver heavy specialized equipment.
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Work in various environments, including gyms, playgrounds, and other physical learning environments.
The APE Teacher bridges the gap between limitation and capability. By focusing on what a student can do, you help build the confidence and physical literacy they need for a lifetime of health and independence.
Questar III prefers an online application, please apply below.